Kenya Airways has signed a deal with the leading aircraft-engine manufacturer in the world, GE Aviation, in which GE will provide flight operation technology for KQ’s aircraft. The technology integrates operational data such as flight details, weather forecasts, and navigation. The digital product will enable KQ to monitor its fuel consumption and aircrafts operations and therefore bring down fuel and maintenance expenses.
“The realization of KQ’s agreement with GE Aviation will enable us to optimize fuel costs and excel in flight operations. GE brings in a wealth of knowledge and the latest cutting-edge digital technology to help KQ fast track efficiencies as well as improve on operations and customer experience,” said KQ’s Director of Operations Paul Njoroge.
The airline is working on a turnaround strategy. One of its goals is to bring down the cost of operation. Fuel expenses make up 30 per cent of the firm’s expenditure posing a great challenge to the business. Kenya Airways expects the partnership with GE will help it to manage its expenses.
Installation of the Flight Operation Technology on KQ aeroplanes is ongoing and it is expected to be finalized later in the year. The Chief Digital Officer at GE Aviation John Mansfield noted that the flight operation technology will help the airline to improve efficiency and lower the firm’s expenses.
“Kenya Airways has been looking for ways to monitor the performance of its fleet and initiatives to track fuel saving and improve efficiency. The Flight Operations suite provides these insights and can be scaled up to provide additional functionality,” said John Mansfield.
Kenya Airways flies to 56 destinations across the globe with its fleet of 41 aeroplanes.
